Branch Davidian Compound in Axtell, Texas
Near Axtell, Texas, 20 miles north-east of Waco was a large group of buildings known as the Mount Carmel Center once used by the Branch Davidian religious group. Named after the Biblical mountain Mount Carmel in Israel, the Davidians (later Branch Davidians) lived in relatively peaceful isolation from the Waco community. As a city with deep religious roots itself, Waco generally accepted the…
Near Axtell, Texas, a former religious community known as Mount Carmel Center was situated, home to the Branch Davidian religious group. The Davidians lived in relative peace, isolated from the Waco community, and were generally accepted by the city due to its own religious significance. However, their perception changed in 1987 when a shootout at the New Mount Carmel Center gained local media attention.
Vernon Howell, later known as David Koresh since 1990, took leadership after a power struggle, introducing radical ideas to the group. He claimed divine instructions to build an army for the end of days, stockpile weapons, and procreate to establish a House of David. Koresh, despite only being legally married to Rachel Jones at 14, had spiritual relationships with multiple women and fathered over 12 children.
While not claiming to be Jesus, Koresh declared himself as the final prophet. On February 28, 1993, federal agents attempted to arrest Koresh, leading to a firefight with four ATF agents and six Davidians losing their lives. A 51-day siege followed until the fire on April 19, 1993, claimed 76 more lives, including children. The original compound no longer exists, destroyed two weeks after the siege.
A new Branch Davidian community, called The Branch, The Lord Our Righteousness, now resides on the property, featuring a chapel, memorial site, and wellness center. Access is restricted, with a $10 entrance donation required.
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